Impact of a municipal solid waste processing facility on microplastic pollution in Indonesia’s waterways

Abstract Major cities are particularly affected by the escalating issue of municipal solid waste (MSW) pollution. Among the various forms of waste, plastic is especially concerning due to its persistence and tendency to fragment into microplastics. This study focuses on the Jangli River located in Semarang City, Indonesia, to quantify and characterize riverine microplastic pollution and assess the impact of the nearby a MSW Temporary Processing Site (TPS). Through water sampling, field observations, and laboratory analysis, we identified and classified microplastics by color and type, determining their abundance across different river points. Our findings reveal a correlation between the proximity to the processing site and increased microplastic levels. Specific hotspots along Jangli River were identified after the location of TPS, highlighting areas with the highest microplastic contamination. This research underscores the urgent need for targeted interventions to manage and mitigate secondary microplastic pollution, specifically solid waste, in Indonesia’s waterways, advocating for effective environmental control measures to protect aquatic ecosystems.